“It was inspiring to see high levels of support at the national level at this groundbreaking event,” Ma says. “Here in Hawai‘i, we have recognized the importance of these varied health care professions by pulling together to help an overstressed system through collaborative projects and classes. This national trend gives us reinforcement. Ultimately, our efforts will make an impact on patient care outcomes as [advocate interprofessional education] filters through our healthcare education programs.”

Topics discussed included leadership assessment and self-analysis, collaboration, conflict management and communication, facilitation of institutional and cultural change, strategic thinking and planning, emerging models of health care, uses of technology, strategies for working with senior administration, financial management, public relations, and ideas for influencing policy.